what to do if bike owner does not hold title? Ie still has a lean on it?

We still had a lien on the 250 when we sold it.
From the buyers standpoint, I agree with OTB's thoughts.
From the sellers standpoint, I don't want some ignorant fuck in control of MY credit. What if he decides to NOT pay it off, and just ride it illegally??
I took care of the guy that bought mine. Gave him a printed bill of sale, with which he can get a 30 day registration card.
As soon as I got the title, signed it off and sent it to him. No problems.

is it gravedigging if a thread is stickied? anywho, thought those in search of used bikes would find this useful. it's a very detailed description of just about everything to look for when buying a used bike - from telling whether scratches mean it was dropped from a standstill or while moving to suspension eval.